There is no “best” type of iron supplement. Inexpensive supplements are widely available and generally work just as well as more expensive iron formulations.
Lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein that has been studied for iron deficiency. Though some results are promising, more research is needed to know how it compares to standard iron forms. For example, few studies have been done in non-pregnant adults. And comparison studies didn't use ferrous sulfate doses that are typically recommended (we'll cover iron supplement doses in an upcoming post).
Follow-up labs are essential to make sure that whichever iron supplement you choose is working to raise your iron levels. Also, know that you have options if your iron pill is hard to take, so talk to your clinician.
Something good: The American Society of Hematology (ASH) is working on guidelines for iron deficiency anemia. I can't wait to read them and will suggest updating this post if there's new information. ASH also advocates for more research to better understand iron deficiency and supplementation, including more diverse clinical trials.
Thank you for this post. What kind of supplement would you call Lactoferrin? Is it the Iron Protein succinylate?
Hi, Jenn --
Lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein that has been studied for iron deficiency. Though some results are promising, more research is needed to know how it compares to standard iron forms. For example, few studies have been done in non-pregnant adults. And comparison studies didn't use ferrous sulfate doses that are typically recommended (we'll cover iron supplement doses in an upcoming post).
Follow-up labs are essential to make sure that whichever iron supplement you choose is working to raise your iron levels. Also, know that you have options if your iron pill is hard to take, so talk to your clinician.
Something good: The American Society of Hematology (ASH) is working on guidelines for iron deficiency anemia. I can't wait to read them and will suggest updating this post if there's new information. ASH also advocates for more research to better understand iron deficiency and supplementation, including more diverse clinical trials.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38291525/
Stay safe. Stay well. Stay Nerdy!
Nerdy Girl Daphne